In Virginia the process of designation is entirely voluntary on the part of the hospitals. It is meant to identify those hospitals that will make a commitment to provide a higher level of care for the multiple injured patients and who welcome public acknowledgment of that capability. Knowledge of trauma care capabilities, with improved field categorization and prehospital capabilities through trauma triage plans will help all those involved in the trauma care delivery system make decisions that are in the best interest of the patient.

Virginia Trauma Center standards are based upon national standards put forth by the American College of Surgeons and the American College of Emergency Physicians. The Virginia standards are reviewed and updated based on changes in the national standards as well as the evolving needs of the Trauma System in Virginia.